Description
Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is an easy and comforting weeknight dinner made with tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese in a luscious, one-pot creamy sauce. This cheesy orzo recipe is perfect for busy nights and picky eaters, ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo
2 ½ cups vegetable broth
2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
¾ cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the orzo and stir to coat. Toast for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Stir in the broccoli and continue cooking until orzo is al dente and broccoli is tender.
8. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
9. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheddar for best melting and flavor.
Add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein.
Leftovers reheat well with a splash of milk or broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 65mg